Neriamangalam, Kerala: Travel to Munnar from Kochi and central Kerala could become smoother with the opening of the new Neriamangalam Bridge, which is nearing completion on the Kochi–Dhanushkodi National Highway. The new bridge, being constructed parallel to the historic old bridge across the Periyar River, is expected to be opened to traffic before October 15, 2026.

The project is being closely watched by motorists, transport operators and tourism businesses as the Neriamangalam crossing is an important link on the route connecting Kochi, Kothamangalam, Neriamangalam, Adimali and Munnar.

New Bridge Designed to Handle More Traffic

The new Neriamangalam Bridge is 214 metres long and 13 metres wide, with an 8-metre-wide vehicle carriageway. It consists of five spans, each measuring around 42 metres. Pedestrian walkways measuring 1.5 metres have also been provided on both sides of the bridge.

The structure is being built as a bowstring steel arch bridge, a design that uses steel members arranged in a bow-like configuration. According to the latest report, the bridge will be Kerala's first bridge of this type.

Road surfacing work has already commenced, while work on the approach roads and pedestrian walkway is also progressing.

Relief for the Existing Neriamangalam Bridge

The new structure is expected to significantly improve traffic movement at Neriamangalam. The existing bridge, built during the British era, is only around 4 metres wide, making it difficult for vehicles to pass smoothly, particularly when traffic volumes increase.

Rather than replacing the historic structure, the new bridge will operate alongside the old bridge. This will provide additional infrastructure for vehicles while retaining the older landmark.

Boost for Kochi–Munnar Tourism Travel

The Neriamangalam–Adimali stretch is one of the key road approaches to Munnar, a major hill-station destination in Kerala. Traffic volumes can rise considerably during weekends, holidays and peak tourism periods.

Improved movement through Neriamangalam could therefore benefit tourists travelling from Kochi to Munnar, as well as taxis, tourist buses, tour operators and other commercial vehicles using the Kochi–Dhanushkodi highway.

For travellers planning a Munnar trip from Kochi, the new bridge will become an important part of the road infrastructure serving the destination.

Opening Target Before October 15

Following a recent inspection of the project, MP Dean Kuriakose said the remaining works are expected to be completed and the bridge opened to traffic before October 15, 2026. The latest report describes the construction as being in its final stage.

Once operational, the new Neriamangalam Bridge is expected to provide additional road capacity and help reduce bottlenecks at one of the important crossings on the Munnar route.

The development comes at a significant time for Kerala tourism, with Munnar continuing to attract visitors from across India and overseas. Better road infrastructure on the Kochi–Munnar corridor could further support tourist mobility and improve connectivity to the hill station.